Presby Moderator applauds ‘Mahama Cares’ policy

The Presbyterian Church of Ghana has voiced its approval for the Government's Free Primary Healthcare Programme and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known colloquially as Mahama Cares. During the opening of the Seventh Development and Social Services Consultation Forum, the Moderator of the General Assembly, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, emphasized the Church's dedication to backing policies that widen access to high-quality medical care and strive for Universal Health Coverage.

The Moderator highlighted the potential of preventive care, regular screenings, and basic treatments provided free of charge under the Free Primary Healthcare Programme to revolutionize primary healthcare, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas. He also welcomed the launch of Mahama Cares, describing it as a timely measure to alleviate the financial strain faced by individuals and families dealing with the escalating costs of treating chronic non-communicable diseases and other conditions that necessitate specialized medical attention.

The Moderator underscored the importance of continued investment in healthcare financing to enhance health outcomes and safeguard the dignity of vulnerable populations. The Presbyterian Church of Ghana currently runs 61 health facilities spread across 13 regions of the country, staffing more than 4,300 individuals and offering nearly 1,600 hospital beds.

Additionally, the Church's Nursing and Midwifery Training Colleges are instrumental in producing healthcare professionals who serve in both public and private health institutions nationwide. On behalf of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Mavis Sakyi praised the Presbyterian Church of Ghana for its long-standing contribution to healthcare delivery and acknowledged the Church as a vital partner in Ghana's quest for Universal Health Coverage.

She reiterated the Ministry's commitment to enhancing collaboration with faith-based healthcare providers and outlined ongoing efforts to boost National Health Insurance Scheme reimbursements and healthcare financing. Dr. Sakyi also extended an invitation to the Presbyterian Church and other faith-based organizations to consider partnerships in concluding and managing selected Agenda 111 hospital projects, viewing such cooperation as crucial to broadening access to high-quality healthcare across the nation.

The forum reasserted the Presbyterian Church of Ghana's commitment to comprehensive ministry through healthcare, social intervention, and human development while strengthening partnerships with government and development stakeholders to enhance the well-being and dignity of all Ghanaians.